Discover Japan Cities, Temples, Mountains, Heritage

Welcome to Japan! Once you have cleared customs, a shared shuttle bus will take you to your hotel in Tokyo. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind and explore at your leisure. In the afternoon, you will receive important details about the beginning of your tour. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On the second day of our adventure in Tokyo, we embark on a comprehensive guided tour of this captivating city, which promises approximately five hours of discovery. Tokyo is renowned for its vibrant energy and futuristic neighbourhoods, alongside serene and tranquil spaces. We kick off our exploration with a brief visit to the Zojoji Temple, where you can capture one of Tokyo's most iconic views of the Tokyo Tower. The temple grounds are adorned with numerous Jizo statues, revered as protectors of children, and dressed in colourful knit caps, bibs, and windmills.Our next stop is the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, often celebrated as the busiest intersection on the planet. From there, we head to the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife. The journey continues along the elegant Omotesando Avenue via bus. We then admire the picturesque parts of the Imperial Palace and its gardens, stopping to appreciate the iconic Nijubashi Bridge. As we proceed, we traverse through the bustling Akihabara district, affectionately known as "Electric Town," a focal point for enthusiasts of Japanese manga and anime. Our route also takes us past the Kokugikan, Japan's renowned sumo wrestling arena. We conclude our tour in Asakusa, where we visit the historic Sensoji Temple and explore Nakamise Street. Lunch is included at a local restaurant, after which we return to the hotel for a brief respite. At 6:30 p.m., we reconvene with our guide in the hotel lobby and take to the metro (tickets provided) to the vibrant Shinjuku district. Here, we wander through its lively streets, acclaimed for their bustling nightlife, before heading to a local restaurant for dinner, which is included. Post-dinner, we return to the hotel by metro, accompanied by our guide.

Today, we embark on a delightful journey to the breathtaking Mount Fuji region, travelling through scenic landscapes along the way. Our first stop is Arakurayama Sengen Park, where enchanting pagodas frame spectacular views of Mount Fuji. We then proceed to the quaint town of Kawaguchiko, nestled amidst mountains, vibrant blooms, and its namesake lake. Here, we visit the tranquil Fuji Sengen Shrine, surrounded by towering trees, marking the traditional start of pilgrimages to Mount Fuji. During our visit, we’ll pause to appreciate the profound beauty of this magical site.Our tour continues with a serene boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko, allowing us to truly absorb the area's tranquillity. We then ascend Mount Fuji via a scenic road to the Fifth Station, positioned at 2,305 metres, offering breathtaking views of dense forests and sweeping vistas. Please note, during winter months, access to Mount Fuji may be limited due to snow or adverse weather conditions, and we will proceed as far as conditions permit.After returning to Kawaguchiko, enjoy free time for a relaxed stroll along the picturesque lake. Tonight, our accommodation is a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where you can unwind in the onsen (public bath). Dinner is included, offering a taste of local cuisine. Please be aware that some rooms at our ryokan feature traditional tatami mats, while others are Western-style. On occasion, we may stay in a Western-style hotel.

Today, our journey begins with a leisurely drive along a scenic route, winding past picturesque lakes to the enchanting village of Iyashi no Sato Nenba. Once devastated by a typhoon in 1966, the village has been meticulously restored and now serves as an open-air museum. Here, you can explore traditional thatched-roof houses transformed into charming arts and crafts shops, inviting restaurants, and informative cultural exhibits, providing a glimpse into Japan's rich history.Our next destination is the stunning Shiraito Falls, renowned for its striking beauty. As one of Japan’s most captivating natural wonders, the waterfall's delicate streams cascade down a height of 20 metres, creating a mesmerising sight. From there, we drive to Nagoya, where you can immerse yourself in the world of automotive innovation at the Toyota Museum – admission is included, making this a must-visit for car enthusiasts. Finally, our day concludes as we journey on to Kyoto, where we’ll stay overnight.

Today, we’ll immerse ourselves in the cultural heart of Japan – Kyoto. This city served as Japan's capital from 794 to 1868, hosting the Imperial Court, and is renowned for its incredibly preserved artistic heritage. Remarkably untouched by the bombings of World War II, Kyoto offers a treasure trove of historical sites and cultural landmarks.Our tour begins in the peaceful district of Arashiyama, where we will admire the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge, also known as the "Bridge over the Moon," providing breathtaking views of the surroundings. From here, we’ll continue to the Tenryuji Temple, one of Kyoto's five great Zen temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walk through its adjoining mystical bamboo forest is sure to leave you in awe.Next, we will explore the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, recognizable by its thousands of vibrant red torii gates, and then proceed to discover the Imperial Palace. We’ll also visit the Kinkakuji Temple, fondly known as the "Golden Pavilion," which glimmers beside its beautifully manicured gardens. Please note that the order of visits may vary depending on the day.After a day rich with sightseeing, you will have the opportunity to wander through Gion, Kyoto's lively traditional district, renowned for its authentic atmosphere and sightings of geishas. It's a delightful way to conclude a day steeped in the rich tapestry of Kyoto’s historical and cultural splendour.

We begin our day with a hearty breakfast before departing along the serene shores of one of Japan's largest lakes. Our first destination is the quaint Shirahige Shrine, which sits gracefully at the lake's edge. Next, we travel to Eihei-ji, a vital centre of Zen Buddhism founded in 1244 (admission included). Here, we'll explore the temple's impressive architecture, tranquil gardens, and spiritual atmosphere. Eihei-ji is renowned for its role as a training ground for monks dedicated to Zazen meditation and a strict daily regimen. Our journey continues to Katsuyama, where we delve into the world of palaeontology at the Dinosaur Museum, set amidst Japan's largest dinosaur fossil site. You'll have free time to savour lunch and wander through the collections, which feature over 40 dinosaur skeletons. Our visit also includes the majestic Great Buddha of Echizen and its grand temple, alongside a five-storey pagoda offering breathtaking views. In the evening, we will reach Kanazawa, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.

We will dedicate the day to discovering Kanazawa, starting with a morning guided tour. Despite the ravages of World War II, Kanazawa remained untouched, much like Kyoto and Tokyo, and has proudly preserved its historical essence. Our exploration will take us through the castle area, noted for its striking walls. Strolling through the atmospheric Nagamachi neighbourhood, we will delight in its charming remnants of a bygone era, including samurai residences, earthen walls, private gates, narrow lanes, and water canals. Admission is included for Kenrokuen Garden, celebrated as one of Japan’s top three gardens. With its acclaimed beauty, it offers a serene retreat for the senses. Our tour will conclude at Omicho Market, a bustling traditional market where you’ll find plenty of enticing options for lunch. The afternoon is yours to continue exploring Kanazawa at your leisure.

We will embark on a scenic journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Gokayama and Shirakawago regions today, both recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These areas are renowned for their traditional gassho-zukuri houses, with steep thatched roofs designed to resemble praying hands, enduring harsh winter snows. Our first stop will be the quaint village of Ainokura, where traditional architecture offers a glimpse into a bygone era. We will also visit the larger and more popular Shirakawa-go Ogimachi, where you'll have time for a leisurely stroll and lunch amidst its charming streets.After our exploration of these unique villages, we will continue to Takayama. Here, we will visit the Hida Folk Village Museum, beautifully situated in a serene setting. This open-air museum features over 30 traditional houses from the Edo Period, relocated to showcase an array of tools and utensils that depict daily life in the past. The day will conclude with some free time for you to explore Takayama's old town, known for its well-preserved wooden architecture and traditional shops.

After breakfast, we’ll set off for Hida Furukawa, where we'll meander through its picturesque old town. This city is celebrated for its festival, recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, featuring grand drums and elaborately decorated floats. We will visit the museum that houses these festival floats, costumes, and drums, offering insight into this vibrant cultural heritage. Continuing our journey, we’ll traverse the Japanese Alps, famed for their snow-capped vistas that linger throughout most of the year. Upon reaching Matsumoto, we’ll explore its striking castle, known as the "Crow Castle" for its distinctive black façade, dating back to the 16th century. You'll have free time to savour lunch and wander the town at your leisure. Our afternoon journey will take us back to Tokyo, where we’ll arrive by the end of the day.

With breakfast enjoyed, we reach the end of our journey, leaving you with cherished memories of your time in Japan. Safe travels and may these experiences forever remain in your heart.